Ritik Sharma, a B Tech Biotechnology student from the School of Bioengineering and Food Technology at Shoolini University, has earned a rare opportunity — he’s been selected for the Erasmus Mundus Joint Master’s Programme in Biology of Ageing (imAGEin). Funded by the European Union, this highly competitive programme chooses just 15 students worldwide each year.
Over the next two years, Ritik will study at top European universities. He’ll begin at Université Côte d’Azur in France, focusing on molecular biology and age-related diseases. In his second year, he will head to the University of Cologne in Germany to study genetics and cellular biology, learning from the best minds in ageing research.
The programme is not limited to academics — it’s a cross-cultural experience that takes students across countries. Partner institutions include the University of Seville in Spain, University of Coimbra in Portugal, and Sorbonne Université in France. Students graduate with hands-on experience and a strong foundation for careers in research, biotech, and healthcare.
At Shoolini, Ritik had already shown strong promise. He worked on research projects under the guidance of his mentor, Associate Professor Lokender Kumar. “Seeing Ritik reach this stage is incredibly rewarding,” said Kumar. “He has the mindset of a researcher — thoughtful, driven, and focused.”
Outside the lab, Ritik left his mark on campus life. At Shoolini Litfest, he was chosen as a Star Buddy and had the chance to accompany filmmaker Imtiaz Ali. His warmth and ease made such an impression that Imtiaz sent him a personal note of appreciation.
Chief Learning Officer Ashoo Khosla, who taught Ritik in Music Appreciation, recalled, “He was attentive, expressive, and a real pleasure to teach. I’m so proud of what he’s achieved and extend my congratulations to his mentors as well.”
Reflecting on his time at Shoolini, Ritik said, “I’m truly grateful for everything I’ve learned here — the research, the academics, the people. It all helped me reach this successful point in my life.”
